Philly Cheesesteak Casserole

A Comforting Twist on a Classic Sandwich

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Preparation Phase & Tools To Use

Tools Needed:

• Large skillet
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Knife and cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Aluminum foil (optional, for covering the casserole while baking)

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Ingredients & Their Roles

• 1 lb thinly sliced beef steak – The star of the dish, providing rich, meaty flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and beef, enhancing their flavors.
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth, mimicking the classic sandwich filling.
• 2 bell peppers (any color), thinly sliced – Introduces a slight crunch and sweetness, complementing the beef.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – Adds umami and a meaty texture to the casserole.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a pungent, aromatic background note.
• 1 tsp salt – Enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp black pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth.
• 1 cup beef broth – Helps to create a savory sauce that moistens and flavors the casserole.
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity with its tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
• 8 slices Provolone cheese – Melts into a creamy, gooey layer, essential for that cheesesteak character.
• 4 cups of frozen hash browns (thawed) – Acts as the base, absorbing flavors and adding substance.
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Adds additional cheesy goodness and a golden top when baked.

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Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
2. Cook the Beef and Veggies: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beef slices, cooking until they start to brown. Remove the beef and set aside. In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, mushrooms, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper, sautéing until the vegetables are tender.
3. Combine Beef and Vegetables: Return the beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes. This mixture should be juicy but not overly wet.
4. Prepare the Hash Brown Base: In the baking dish, spread the thawed hash browns in an even layer. Season with a little salt and pepper.
5. Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the beef and vegetable mixture over the hash browns. Cover everything with slices of Provolone cheese, then sprinkle with shredded mozzarella.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil (optional) and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows it to set and makes it easier to cut into portions.

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Timing & Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Kcal: Approximately 450 kcal per serving (varies based on specific ingredients used)

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits:

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole is a protein-rich dish, offering a good amount of iron and vitamins from the vegetables. The cheese provides calcium, but to make it healthier, consider using low-fat cheese options and lean beef.

Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

• Overcooking the beef: Cook just until browned to keep it tender.
• Wet vegetable and beef mixture: Ensure the mixture is not too wet before layering it on the hash browns to prevent a soggy base.
• Skipping the seasoning: Properly season each layer for the best flavor development.
• Not allowing to set: Give the casserole a few minutes to cool before cutting to maintain structure.

Conclusion

This Philly Cheesesteak Casserole transforms the iconic sandwich into a heartwarming, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for any day of the week. With its layers of tender beef, sautéed vegetables, melted cheese, and crispy hash browns, it’s a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy any cheesesteak cravings. Serve it up for a cozy family dinner, and enjoy the comforting flavors of Philly right at your table.